Common Name(s): Chlorobutanol,chlorobutanol,prohibited antiseptic,eu annex ii banned halogenated compound
CAS Number: N/a
DESCRIPTION
What It Does: Prohibited in eu cosmetics. these halogenated antiseptics carry unacceptable neurotoxicity (hexachlorophene) or mutagenicity (chlorobutanol) risk.
Why It's Used: Hexachlorophene accumulates in myelin sheaths causing spongiform encephalopathy (vacuolar myelin degeneration) โ brain damage is dose-dependent but has been documented at concentrations historically used in cosmetics.
How It Works: Hexachlorophene (bichlorophenol): lipophilic aromatic chloride accumulates in myelin from repeated dermal absorption; disrupts oligodendrocyte mitochondrial function causing intramyelinic oedema and vacuolation. chlorobutanol: alkylating agent with chloroacetaldehyde metabolite causing dna damage.
Typically Found In: Do not formulate
TECHNICAL DETAILS
Primary Category: Active ingredient โ cosmetic active
Secondary Functions: Skin conditioning
Application Areas:
Facial Skincare
Body Care
Hair Care
Beard Care
Color Cosmetics (Makeup)
Dietary/Oral Supplements
Typical Concentration Range: Prohibited
SOURCING & ETHICS
Vegan Status: Conditional - supplier confirmation required
Halal Status: Unverified - supplier confirmation required
Source Notes: Commercially produced for cosmetic use. verify vegan/halal status with supplier. [audit 2026-07-29 rev2: the record's own source_notes does not assert a non-animal origin, or instructs the reader to verify with the supplier; "yes" asserts knowledge the record does not hold. determination requires shariah-panel sign-off.]
SKIN COMPATIBILITY
Irritancy Rating: 1/5 โ very low
Comedogenicity Rating: 0/5 โ non-comedogenic
Sensitivity Concerns: Well-tolerated by most skin types.
Safe for Sensitive Skin: Yes
SAFETY & COMPATIBILITY
Safety Profile: Good safety profile at recommended concentrations. ewg score: 1โ2.
Works Well With: Standard skincare actives
Avoid Combining With: No known significant incompatibilities
SCIENTIFIC NOTE
Replace with: triclosan-free (also restricted), chlorhexidine (eu annex v permitted at limits), or non-halogenated broad-spectrum preservatives.
Last Verified: 2026-03-22
Primary Sources: Eu regulation 1223/2009 annex ii,chlorobutanol prohibition review